Tag: education

Children’s Learning Adventure Gears Up for an Amazing Summer

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Press Release
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updated: May 31, 2019

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz., May 31, 2019 (Newswire.com)
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As students enjoy summer break, Children’s Learning Adventure’s Hooray for Hollywood summer camp is the perfect way to stay engaged while school is out. Their STEAM-based curriculum provides campers of ages 5-12 (5-13 in Texas) with the tools to create a fun, engaging and educational summer experience.

“Students should be actively involved in learning activities both in and outside the school setting, even during school breaks,” said Rick Sodja, Children’s Learning Adventure CEO.

Children’s Learning Adventure has created a fun and unique way for students to stay engaged throughout the whole year. Taking a break from school doesn’t mean there needs to be a break from learning. Children’s Learning Adventure’s summer camp is a perfect option to keep children actively engaged, focused and eager. Their holiday camps provide an amazing opportunity for campers to engage in innovative activities, explore exciting hands-on projects and grow friendships.

Children’s Learning Adventure implements their STEAM-based curriculum into all activities while intentionally planning engaging lessons that correlate with our learning objectives. Their learning activities give students the opportunity to fully explore the theme and topic of the week.

One of the most valuable aspects of this year’s summer camp is the way Children’s Learning Adventure is encouraging creativity. At Children’s Learning Adventure, campers are encouraged to express and recognize their emotions through communication and creativity. Their STEAM-based curriculum incorporates the arts, promoting students to explore and express themselves through a variety of mediums in a positive, supportive environment.

The all-inclusive camp, available at all 44 Children’s Learning Adventure campuses, also includes weekly field trips, meals, activities and flexible scheduling, giving campers the experience of a lifetime so they can enjoy their summer while also learning something new.

To learn more about Children’s Learning Adventure or Summer Camp, please visit www.childrenslearningadventure.com or call (877) 797-1417.

Media Contact:
Kyle Greenberg
kgreenberg@childrenslearningadventure.com
Creative Manager

Source: Children’s Learning Adventure

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May 31, 2019
Daystar School Announces IB Certification, Name Change to Daystar Academy and the Launch of a High School

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Changes reflect continued growth of Chicago’s leader in non-denominational faith-based schooling.

Press Release
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updated: May 10, 2019

CHICAGO, May 10, 2019 (Newswire.com)
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Daystar School today announced its new name, “Daystar Academy: An IB World School,” to reflect its expanded ability to offer the highly lauded, world-leading curricular framework of an officially authorized International Baccalaureate (IB) World School. With the new name and the launch of its inaugural 9^th grade class, Daystar students now have a stronger presence on the world stage and will benefit from the higher acceptance rates at universities and colleges typical of IB graduates.

An IB education prepares students to thrive in the transition from high school to college through an invigorating academic way of learning that requires initiative, organization, and follow-through, and results in students who feel comfortable being the leaders and innovators of tomorrow; the adults the world needs!

“With our commitment to producing engaged global citizens and lifelong learners, we’ve adopted a learning program that takes a global approach to understanding big ideas across disciplines,” explained Tami Doig, Head of School at Daystar Academy. “As an IB World School, Daystar Academy is committed to helping our students understand the philosophical underpinning of knowledge through the guidance of highly skilled educators who engage each student through topics of study that hone their passions and an understanding of the world around them.”

This announcement comes as the school continues to grow via the opening of a high school this fall. “Expanding our program to include high school is a logical extension that enables us to continue empowering students to positively impact the world,” shared Deena Marie Carr, Chairman of the Board at Daystar Academy. “We believe that education needs to be experienced first-hand, touched with your hands, and felt with emotion. We’ve built a program that ensures that every student embraces the world around them as their classroom, using local, national and global resources as tools for learning.”

Daystar, founded in 1997, is now fully authorized to offer the IB Middle Years Program (MYP) for grades 6-10 and a candidate school for the Pre-K through grade 5 Primary Years Program (PYP). Daystar will offer the IB Diploma Program for high school as the launch class ages up to the Diploma Program grades of 11 and 12.

Daystar Academy is hosting an open house for prospective high school students on Monday, May 13 at 7pm. Daystar Academy is accepting applications for fall 2019 for preschool through grade 9.

About Daystar Academy

Daystar Academy, formerly known as Daystar School, is a faith-based, culturally engaged, globally-minded high school in Chicago’s South Loop, preparing students to positively impact the world. Daystar Academy is a deliberately socioeconomically diverse community with a student body made up of African American, Asian, Caucasian, Hispanic, Native American, and multiracial students. For more information, go to www.daystaracademy.org.

Press Inquiries:

Aaron Winter

Director of Admissions & Marketing

Daystar Academy

Phone: (734) 612-0402

Email: a.winter@daystaracademy.org

Source: Daystar Academy

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May 10, 2019
New Non-Profit Launches With ‘Bullish’ Outlook on Newark’s Education Future
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New organization wants to show the nation that Newark can demonstrate ‘third way forward’ on public education

Press Release
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updated: Apr 30, 2019
NEWARK, N.J., April 30, 2019 (Newswire.com)
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As public education in Newark undergoes another major transition, a new non-profit organization is launching with a bold vision for what’s possible. The organization, named the New Jersey Children’s Foundation (NJCF), intends to show the rest of the nation that cities can move past the acrimony and us-versus-them politics of education reform to create systems of district and charter schools working together to improve opportunities for ALL children.

The new organization’s mission is to invest in people, programs and partnerships that will improve public education systems by putting the interests of children first. Its vision is that each and every child will break down the walls of inequity through the creation of high-quality public education systems.

“Children have been the biggest beneficiaries of the improvements to public education in Newark over the last decade,” said NJCF founder and Executive Director Kyle Rosenkrans. “But no one should run a victory lap until every child can get into a great public school.

“That’s why Newark’s next phase of locally driven leadership is so exciting. The city can show the nation that it’s possible for a system of district and charter schools to work together and expand educational opportunity.”

The new organization will focus on three issue areas:
1. Citywide School Performance. Newark has come a long way but needs a consistent, fact-based discussion about student outcomes, one that is unafraid to talk about both the successes and failures, and leads to real improvement strategies.
2. District-Charter Collaboration. Newark can be a national model for how we create systems of high-performing public schools, with great district and charter schools living side by side as neighbors and collaborators.
3. Fair Funding for All Public Schools. There are tremendous inequities in the way both district and charter schools are funded in New Jersey. We will work alongside anyone dedicated to fixing this problem so that every student in the city has the resources they need to learn at the highest level.
NJCF will do three things to advance these issues:
1. Publish policy, data and research to promote a fact-based discussion about what’s working and what’s not and identify potential solutions.
2. Support grassroots advocacy projects to increase the number of people involved in the discussion about public education.
3. Fundraise for proven, citywide solutions to improve student outcomes.
The new non-profit is launching with a board of experienced professionals that it hopes to expand over time. Board chair Everett Johnson was born and raised in Newark and is now a partner at the prestigious Wilentz law firm, specializing in municipal finance. Board member Modia Butler is a partner at Mercury Public Affairs and a top advisor to New Jersey Senator Cory Booker. Kevin Shafer is a founding board member and a partner with the City Fund, a new national philanthropic initiative that is supporting NJCF’s launch. Kevin has deep experience in working in large city school districts focused on improvement.

Founder and Executive Director Kyle Rosenkrans has worked in Newark for more than a decade. Kyle is a first-generation college graduate from New Jersey who went on to become a civil rights attorney, law professor and public policy advocate. Kyle’s career has covered a variety of social justice initiatives in Newark: K-12 education reform, low-income housing preservation, assisting victims of foreclosure scams and related research about the impact of foreclosures on Newark communities, LGBT rights and police brutality, anti-bullying policy and prisoner reentry. He is a successful fundraiser who spent the last two years helping KIPP New Jersey build and launch a multi-million dollar fundraising campaign — raising millions in pledges for the non-profit organization. Prior to this, Kyle spent five years as lead education attorney at Essex-Newark Legal Services, two years as a visiting law professor at Seton Hall Law School’s Center for Social Justice in Newark and several years as the CEO of the charter school association in New York and Connecticut. He is a fellow of the Leadership Newark class of 2011 and proud father of a 5-year-old son.

Contact: Matthew Frankel, MDF Strategies, 917.617.7914

Source: New Jersey Children’s Foundation
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April 30, 2019
The Waldorf® School Million-Fold Global Postcard Exchange – a Worldwide Collaboration

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Connecting students around the world with postcards.

Press Release
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updated: Apr 26, 2019

LONGMONT, Colo., April 26, 2019 (Newswire.com)
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Waldorf schools around the world are participating in a global postcard exchange initiative to both broaden their perspective on diverse cultures and celebrate the 100th anniversary of Waldorf® education.

Students in schools across the globe have created and sent a postcard to every other Waldorf school. Each postcard was individually and artistically designed by a young person, telling or showing something of his or her country, school or self.

This global project has connected students from 1,100 schools in 80 countries, spanning from the United States, China, India, Israel and more. The postcards have been arranged by each school into a Global Map for public display.

Learn more at www.Waldorf Education.org/waldorf100.

Or contact Beverly Amico at bamico@awsna.org.

Source: Association of Waldorf Schools of North America

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April 26, 2019
State Momentum Grows for Free College Movement

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Press Release
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updated: Apr 24, 2019

WASHINGTON, April 24, 2019 (Newswire.com)
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The College Promise Campaign, a nonprofit working to increase the number of quality College Promise programs, released a statewide program landscape during the Michigan College Promise Symposium at the Detroit Regional Chamber. In the fall of 2018, the campaign announced over 300 active College Promise programs across 44 states. Today, they released a status update on statewide programs engaged in the free college movement. The release highlights 24 states that have actively passed and taken steps to implement a statewide “Promise” program. These statewide programs reflect the bipartisan nature of a movement intended to both bolster the American talent pipeline and increase student success outcomes. “All across the nation, momentum has been building throughout states and localities to create opportunities which allow students to start and complete a college education without taking on mountains of student debt,” said Martha Kanter, Executive Director of the College Promise Campaign.

Today, the program highlights the gains made by governors in establishing statewide programs across the country. Over 60% of states currently have or are taking legislative steps to implement a statewide College Promise program.

“All across the nation, momentum has been building throughout states and localities to create opportunities which allow students to start and complete a college education without taking on mountains of student debt.”

Martha Kanter, Executive Director, College Promise Campaign

“States are taking action and funding Promise programs to increase economic competitiveness and close talent shortage gaps,” said Rosye Cloud, vice president of the College Promise Campaign. “Promise programs provide hope at a time when many Americans feel forgotten.”

Some College Promise programs use a hybrid mixture of local, state and federal funds; others use only local and/or state dollars; and still, others are solely privately funded. A variety of programs rely on public and private partnerships with help from corporations and philanthropy. Some are designed for a single campus or college district, while others are city-, county- or state-wide.

“Initial results show local and state Promise programs improve outcomes for students and their communities,” said Robyn Hiestand, Director of Research and Policy at the College Promise Campaign. “We are going to be working with local and state researchers and practitioners to improve research, analysis and policy tools to help inform the national dialogue on free college.”

The Promise movement has seen significant growth over the past several years, growing from 54 programs in 2015 to over 300 nationwide, with growth scaling to the state level. Research shows that Promise programs promote a college-going culture and help students not only access but succeed in college. While individual program models vary, each is guided by a few core principles. A College Promise is a commitment to fund a college education for every eligible student advancing on the path to earn a degree, certificate and/or credits that transfer to a four-year university. It’s a promise to prepare students for the 21st-century workforce and the pursuit of the American Dream without the burden of unmanageable college debt. It’s a promise to make the first two years of college – at a minimum – as universal, free, and accessible as public high school has been since the 20th century.

For more information: Download the Statewide Promise Status Update

Follow Us: on Facebook @CollegePromise; Twitter and Instagram @College_Promise

Donate to the College Promise Campaign

The College Promise Campaign is a nonpartisan, nonprofit higher education initiative that builds widespread support for funding quality college programs for all hardworking students. In the 21st century, a high school diploma is no longer enough to lead Americans to a good job and a decent quality of life. CPC is an initiative of Civic Nation, a 501(c)(3) organized exclusively for charitable and educational purposes.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Adam.Shapiro@ASPR.bz

202-427-3603

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April 24, 2019
Ramona Hursey Pays It Forward With Quality Child Care

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Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) Provider Ramona Hursey of Champaign, IL featured by National CACFP Sponsors Association

Press Release
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updated: Apr 18, 2019

AUSTIN, Texas, April 18, 2019 (Newswire.com)
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Difficult life circumstances led Ramona Hursey to work in a child care center. She decided she would master her first “real job” working as an assistant and then move up the ladder until she was certified as a director. She realized along the way that she had found her true calling. Ramona opened her own child care home where she models her program on what she has learned and uses curriculum she has modified to fit the children enrolled instead of a generic routine.

Ramona’s biggest focus is making sure children are taken care of while their parents are at work, at school, or bettering themselves in some way. One of the keys is to focus on good nutrition where at times she is serving the only food the kids will eat during the day. Ramona teaches the children about having a balanced meal and components that make a healthy diet. The older children go shopping at the grocery store with her and then everyone helps prepare the meal at home.

Someone stepped up for me. They took my hand. I want to be able to reach back and pull others up. Sometimes that is all people need.

Ramona Hursey, Child Care Provider

Ramona focuses on small life skills that will help the children be more independent when they go to kindergarten. They work on listening and following instructions. Children are taught skills like how to open their own milk cartons and use their utensils. Most importantly, Ramona likes to sit with the children and simply have conversations, modeling how to speak and be with others. This helps even shy children find their voice so they can ask for what they need.

Ramona’s ultimate goal is to provide top quality child care for those that may not be able to afford it. Along with the children, she also cares for the families, many of which are single mothers. She wants to be a stepping stone for them. They work together as a family to better themselves, which ultimately benefits the children.

CACFP is an indicator of quality child care. When children are cared for by providers who are part of the CACFP program, they are receiving the best nutrition available. Learn more about other CACFP providers featured in the Member Showcase at CACFP’s website, www.cacfp.org.

Since 1986, the National CACFP Sponsors Association (NCA) is the leading national organization for sponsors who administer the USDA Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP). It provides education and support to thousands of members in the CACFP community and in particular to sponsors of all sizes from across the country. CACFP strives to improve communication between families, caregivers, sponsors and their supervising government agencies.

Source: National CACFP Sponsors Association

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April 18, 2019
Children’s Learning Adventure Gives Students the Summer of a Lifetime

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Press Release
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updated: Apr 16, 2019

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz., April 16, 2019 (Newswire.com)
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The implementation of STEAM-based curriculum is a meaningful way to prepare children for everyday life. Children’s Learning Adventure encourages intellectual growth through engaging, hands-on STEAM activities.

Children’s Learning Adventure’s 2019 summer camp theme is, Hooray for Hollywood! The centers will offer non-stop, exciting experiences centered around all things Hollywood and movie magic. Their summer camp includes lunch and snacks, weekly field trips, and engaging STEAM-based activities. In addition to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, Children’s Learning Adventure also provides campers with the opportunity to thoroughly explore and discover the arts. Children’s Learning Adventure’s Hooray for Hollywood! summer camp is sure to provide every child with many amazing memories for a lifetime.

Children’s Learning Adventure takes a fun approach to learning! By offering exciting programs and unique environments where students are encouraged to explore STEAM-based activities. Our curriculum is designed to keep students engaged and interested in learning. Children’s Learning Adventure takes an interactive and engaging approach to summer by ensuring STEAM-based curriculum is integrated into fun activities for all ages. Summer camp is a great way for campers to create friendships, try new activities, and continue learning while schools are out for the summer. Enrolling in summer camp gives families the opportunity to see the high quality, engaging curriculum Children’s Learning Adventure provides for students throughout the year.

“Teachers at Children’s Learning Adventure encourage children to actively participate and explore in the various learning activities. By using this unique approach to teaching science, technology, engineering, the arts, and mathematics; our students develop the necessary critical thinking and problem-solving skills they need to be successful inside and outside the classroom.” – Rick Sodja, CEO

To learn more about Children’s Learning Adventure or Summer Camp please visit www.childrenslearningadventure.com, or call (877) 797-1417.

Media Contact:

Kyle Greenberg
kgreenberg@childrenslearningadventure.com
Creative Manager

Source: Children’s Learning Adventure

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April 16, 2019
Children’s Learning Adventure Creates STEAM Based Summer Camp

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Press Release
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updated: Apr 9, 2019

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz., April 9, 2019 (Newswire.com)
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Children’s Learning Adventure implements STEAM-based curriculum that models a child’s natural learning style, and is seamlessly integrated into every classroom. Children can grow, learn, explore, and apply new skills and concepts every day. STEAM-based learning shows students that learning is a natural part of the day. Every subject, topic of discussion, and experience is an opportunity to learn something new. Questions, curiosity, and hands-on learning experiences are valued. This approach to learning encourages students to enjoy and value the learning process and will have a positive and lasting impact throughout their academic career.

Children’s Learning Adventures theme for this year’s summer camp is, “Hooray for Hollywood!”. The summer camp will offer a specialized STEAM-based curriculum centered around all things Hollywood and movie magic. Children’s Learning Adventure’s Summer camp will also include field trips, transportation to and from local elementary schools, and a specialized curriculum that encompasses STEAM learning. In addition to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, CLA engages students with the arts.

“The ‘Hooray for Hollywood’ camp theme is intentionally planned to offer a specialized, uniquely designed curriculum that encompasses STEAM learning and literacy as Hollywood helps capture our imagination by taking us on amazing journeys to new worlds.” – Rick Sodja, CEO

Children’s Learning Adventures most entertaining summer camp yet will help teach children to appreciate the world around them and create storylines that can guide them to understand who they are. Every child will have the opportunity to explore movie magic, from behind the scenes exploration to learning the tricks of the trade to participation in a variety of game shows. These are just a few of the many activities Children’s Learning Adventure is offering to families.

Children’s Learning Adventure’s curriculum introduces their students to multiple learning environments designed to provide authentic learning activities in a meaningful context. This helps each child grow intellectually by maximizing their learning capacity. Students build upon their prior knowledge and are encouraged to actively apply what they have learned in their homerooms in a variety of different context specifically created to engage the student and provide meaningful opportunities to explore, apply, analyze, and construct their understanding of the concepts.

To learn more about Children’s Learning Adventure and their upcoming Summer Camp please visit www.childrenslearningadventure.com, or call (877) 797-1417.

Media Contact:

Kyle Greenberg
kgreenberg@childrenslearningadventure.com
Creative Manager

Source: Children’s Learning Adventure

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April 9, 2019
Appointment of Dr. Deepak Chopra as Distinguished Professor of Consciousness Studies

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The California Institute for Human Science (CIHS) is delighted to welcome Dr. Chopra to the community

Press Release
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updated: Apr 4, 2019

ENCINITAS, Calif., April 4, 2019 (Newswire.com)
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Founded in 1992 by Dr. Hiroshi Motoyama, a pioneering scientist and spiritual educator, CIHS is a unique graduate school and research center that specializes in clinical and integral psychology, integral health & biofield studies, and comparative religion and philosophy from a consciousness-based perspective. Located in Encinitas, California, CIHS provides an innovative education dedicated to the intersection of science and spirituality. CIHS is state approved by the Bureau of Private Post-Secondary Education to offer degrees and the California Board of Psychology to offer license eligible Ph.D. degrees in Clinical Psychology, and was recently granted Candidate for Accreditation by the US regional accrediting agency WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).

Dr. Chopra is a world-renowned pioneer in mind-body medicine and personal transformation. Beginning a unifying dialogue as an endocrinologist, Dr. Chopra ushered the science of consciousness, spirituality and wellbeing to the forefront of American discourse. Dr. Chopra’s work excellently dovetails with the vision and mission of CIHS to bring the integration of science and consciousness into global integral education that furthers the fields of psychology, healthcare, and integrative philosophy. Dr. Chopra expressed his appreciation of CIHS, “I am pleased to have the opportunity to work with CIHS, which for over two decades has been working to heal the unfounded schism between science and spirituality.” He will offer specialized academic guidance and special events as well as participate in strategic advancement dialogues that only his unique background in the field of science and application of consciousness studies can provide.

Co-President and Academic Dean, Dr. Hope Umansky, asserted, “I am thrilled to welcome Dr. Chopra into the CIHS community. I cannot think of a more renowned specialist who aligns with our academic values. The students and larger community will likewise benefit greatly from his association.”

This new collaboration will also provide CIHS access to and the opportunity to work with the Chopra Foundation’s ISHAR (Integrated Studies Health Archive & Research), an archive of cultural and scientific knowledge, research, and discussion on integrative medicine and consciousness studies. Co-President and Executive Dean, Dr. Thomas Brophy, noted, “This collaboration will provide new and expanded opportunities for students and researchers to advance the science of consciousness. In turn, CIHS will provide unique perspectives and support on the science of consciousness studies as research opportunities unfold with Dr. Chopra and ISHAR.”

“CIHS is grateful for this unique opportunity to work with Dr. Chopra for the advancement of CIHS’ educational and research missions,” stated Dr. Paul J. Mills, CIHS Board member, UC San Diego Professor and Chief of Family Medicine and Public Health, and Director of Research for the Chopra Foundation.

The entire CIHS community warmly welcomes Dr. Chopra to CIHS.

Source: California Institute for Human Science

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April 4, 2019
Children’s Learning Adventure Creates Engaging Summer Camp

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Press Release
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updated: Apr 2, 2019

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz., April 2, 2019 (Newswire.com)
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Children’s Learning Adventure’s curriculum ensures daily exposure to STEAM-based learning through multiple learning environments designed to provide authentic learning activities in a meaningful context. They have created a company-wide goal to maximize every child’s learning capacity by building upon their prior knowledge and encouraging them to actively apply what they have learned in their homerooms in a variety of different contexts specifically created to engage the student and provide meaningful opportunities to explore, apply, analyze and construct their understanding of the concepts.

Children’s Learning Adventure is changing the meaning of “summer breaks” for students across the nation by offering their “Hooray for Hollywood” Summer Camp. The camp will include weekly field trips, specialty classes and a STEAM-based curriculum with hands-on activities to encourage campers to practice communication, collaboration and creativity.

“A school break doesn’t need to be a break from mental stimulation. At Children’s Learning Adventure, students are always gearing up for a new adventure. When school is out, it is ‘in’ to join the fun. Each school break and summer camp offers a specialized, uniquely designed curriculum that encompasses STEAM learning and literacy,” said Rick Sodja, CEO.

Each theme of Children’s Learning Adventure’s Summer Camps is developed to engage students of all levels in science, technology, engineering, the arts and mathematics. The “Hooray for Hollywood” camp theme is intentionally planned to offer a specialized, uniquely designed curriculum that encompasses STEAM learning and literacy as Hollywood helps capture our imagination by taking us on amazing journeys to new worlds. Children’s Learning Adventures’ most entertaining summer camp yet will help teach children to appreciate the world around them and create storylines that can guide them to understand who they are. Every child will have the opportunity to explore movie magic, from behind-the-scenes exploration to learning the tricks of the trade to participation in a variety of game shows. These are just a few of the many activities Children’s Learning Adventure is offering to families.

To learn more about Children’s Learning Adventure and their upcoming Summer Camp, please visit www.childrenslearningadventure.com or call (877) 797-1417 to speak with a personal admissions specialist.

Media Contact:
Kyle Greenberg
kgreenberg@childrenslearningadventure.com
Creative Manager

Source: Children’s Learning Adventure

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April 2, 2019
Pure Storage Offers Support to Expand the Boys & Girls Club of Hawaii (BGCH) Kauai

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Press Release
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updated: Mar 29, 2019

LIHUE, Hawaii, March 29, 2019 (Newswire.com)
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Pure Storage employees rallied together to make a significant donation to the Boys & Girls Club of Hawaii, Lihue Clubhouse. The effort was kicked off by the Executive Director of Pure Good Foundation, the charitable arm of Pure Storage, Nicole Johnson.

“I visited the Boys & Girls Club of Hawaii-Kauai and saw first-hand how much the students enjoyed being at the club and learned about what the organization needed in order to support even more students. I shared this experience and information with Pure Storage employees, who are always looking for ways to help communities around the world. Our employees exceeded all expectations and, together, contributed more than $200,000, which will be used to help expand the existing facility and give them the ability to offer new programs.

“Pure Storage rewards top performers in the company annually with a vacation celebrating their success and this year, that trip takes Pure to Kauai. We want to take this opportunity to not only enjoy the beauty of Kauai but to also learn more about the island and give back to the community which has already been so welcoming to us,” said Johnson.

“Making an investment of this magnitude will positively impact more families to have access to quality after school care,” said Tina Albao, director of operations & development for BGCH. “Building futures is our business and Pure Storage is just the right corporation to send the message home that our kids are important.”

“Kauai Habitat for Humanity is excited to partner with Boys & Girls Club and Pure Storage to help on this much-needed project. While the building will be constructed by a licensed contractor, Kauai Habitat’s crew has agreed to provide construction leadership on the day of the big event to assist volunteers in putting in finishing touches such as building seating, shelving and painting,” said Deputy Director Milani Pimental. “Community partnerships like this are important to us. By coming together to build opportunities for our youth, we are also building communities and hope.”

“The Pure Good Foundation’s mission is focused on youth and education and works to empower our employees and non-profit partners to build a better world,” explained Johnson. “We learned about the programs and support that the Boys & Girls Club of Hawaii-Kauai is providing to hundreds of youth every day. The center acts as a second home and family for these students, not only providing a safe place for them to come to after school but also offering tutoring and social activities as well. We have heard many student success stories from this club and this is a place we want to help thrive.”

See a short video here.

Boys & Girls Club of Hawaii (BGCH) is a non-profit organization serving more than 14,000 youth, ages 7-18, annually on Oahu and Kauai. The mission of the organization is to inspire and enable youth to realize their full potential as productive, responsible and caring citizens. BGCH Clubhouses and outreach sites offer affordable membership fees and provide guidance-oriented development programs that emphasize education, technology and career development; health and life skills; the arts; character and leadership development; and sports, fitness and recreation. BGCH is an affiliate of the Boys & Girls Club of America and has been operating in Hawaii since 1976. For more information, visit www.bgch.com or call (808) 245.2210.

Why the Boys & Girls Club of Hawaii-Kauai?

The Pure Good Foundation’s mission is focused on youth and education and works to empower our employees and non-profit partners to build a better world. We learned about the programs and support that the Boys & Girls Club of Hawaii-Kauai is providing to hundreds of youth every day. The center acts as a second home and family for these students, not only providing a safe place for them to come to after school but also offering tutoring and social activities as well. We have heard many student success stories from this club, and this is a place Pure Good wants to help thrive.

About Kaua‘i Habitat for Humanity

Kaua‘i Habitat for Humanity is a local affiliate of Habitat for Humanity International, an ecumenical, nonprofit, Christian housing ministry. Its mission is to bring people together to build homes, communities and hope. Through volunteer and homeowner labor and donations of money and materials, Habitat builds and rehabilitates simple, decent houses. Since 1992, Kaua‘i Habitat has built 150 affordable homes and made critical repairs to 29 existing homes for Kaua‘i families whose household income is between 30-80 percent of the median Kaua‘i income. For more information, to donate or to volunteer, please visit www.kauaihabitat.org.

Source: Boys & Girls Club of Hawaii

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March 29, 2019
Children’s Learning Adventure’s Most Exciting Summer Camp Yet

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Press Release
–

updated: Mar 26, 2019

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz., March 26, 2019 (Newswire.com)
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Children’s Learning Adventure’s all-inclusive, STEAM-based summer camp will provide every child with a summer experience they’ll never forget. This year’s summer camp theme “Hooray for Hollywood” will introduce campers to a curriculum centered around all things Hollywood and movie magic.

Children’s Learning Adventure’s “Hooray for Hollywood” camp goers will take an amazing journey to new worlds by using their imagination and learning to appreciate the world around them and create storylines that can guide them to understand who they are. Every child will have the opportunity to explore movie magic, from behind-the-scenes exploration to learning the tricks of the trade to participation in a variety of game shows.

The “Hooray for Hollywood” camp theme is intentionally planned to offer a specialized, uniquely designed curriculum that encompasses STEAM learning and literacy as Hollywood helps capture our imagination by taking us on amazing journeys to new worlds. These are just a few of the many activities Children’s Learning Adventure is offering to families.

“Our summer camp STEAM-based curriculum will offer specialized activities centered around all things Hollywood and movie magic. Our summer camp will also include field trips, transportation to and from local elementary schools and a specialized curriculum that encompasses STEAM learning,” said Rick Sodja, Children’s Learning Adventure CEO.

The all-inclusive camp, available at all 45 Children’s Learning Adventure campuses, also includes weekly field trips, meals, activities and flexible scheduling, giving campers the experience of a lifetime, so they can enjoy their summer while also learning something new.

To learn more about Children’s Learning Adventure and their upcoming summer camp, please visit www.childrenslearningadventure.com or call 1-877-797-1417.

Media Contact:
Kyle Greenberg
kgreenberg@childrenslearningadventure.com
Creative Manager

Source: Children’s Learning Adventure

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March 26, 2019
AWC Detroit Celebrates National Reading Month With Westside Christian Academy

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AWC Detroit marched into National Reading Month by sponsoring local author Cindy Orlandi’s visit to Westside Christian Academy on Tuesday, March 19. The visit is part of AWC Detroit’s advocacy program, “Driving Literacy in the D.” AWC Detroit’s advocacy program hopes to shine a spotlight on successful efforts to advance literacy in Detroit.

Press Release
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updated: Mar 23, 2019

DETROIT, March 23, 2019 (Newswire.com)
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Cindy Orlandi, a member of AWC Detroit and author of “Love is a Dog and Some Crayons…Weimaraner Coloring,” will be reading to Westside’s first graders alongside Bennie, her Weimaraner rescue therapy dog. Cindy Orlandi is a resident of Woodhaven.

“It is a real pleasure to share my love of dogs and reading with the young students at Westside Christian Academy,” states Orlandi. “I hope my visit will inspire the children to read more. Westside Christian Academy has achieved amazing success in getting the majority of students to read at grade level.”

Henry Wells, Ph.D., director of Westside Christian Academy, speaks to the school’s success:

“Nearly 80 percent of our first, second and third graders’ reading scores are at grade level. Any child who is not at grade level at the end of the school year is placed in the reading remediation program ‘Beyond Basics.’ We attribute our success to a small student-teacher ratio and the supportive atmosphere of the school. We are honored to have extraordinary teachers like Lucinda Washington, who holds a master’s degree in Early Reading Education, to be teaching in our lower school.”

Detroit’s Westside Christian Academy’s success rate is remarkable when considering that in 2018, Detroit Public Schools ranked last in the nation on standardized test scores, with only 5 percent of fourth graders demonstrating proficiency in reading and 7 percent in math.

Deniella Ortiz-Lalain, president of the AWC Detroit, says that as professional communicators, AWC members understand the vital link between literacy and success.

“Our chapter is making a commitment to promote literacy,” she said. “Our group recognizes the impact that the literacy crisis is having on the citizens of Detroit. It’s our hope that we can shine a light on programs that are making a difference in our community.”

Additionally, AWC Detroit will be conducting a book drive with students at Walsh College on behalf of Westside Christian Academy in conjunction with Orlandi’s visit in April. Driving Literacy in the D is the heart of AWC Detroit’s advocacy program. Members are encouraged to participate and bring their unique skills to the program.

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The Association for Women in Communications (AWC) Detroit Chapter is dedicated to advocating for women’s needs and honoring communication excellence. Established in 1938, the chapter supports the advancement of members by connecting women from a diverse range of communications professions. AWC Detroit provides professional development, volunteer enrichment opportunities, and insightful programs on hot topics and leading trends in communications.

For more information contact: Melinda Kollins at melinda.kollins@gmail.com.

Source: Association For Women in Communications – Detroit Chapter

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March 23, 2019
Raising A Reader Marks 20-Year Anniversary as Leading Children’s Literacy Nonprofit in the U.S.

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Organization has reached 1.7 million families across the country, providing literacy and family engagement programs at more than 3,000 locations including public schools, libraries and community agencies

Press Release
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updated: Mar 21, 2019

REDWOOD CITY, Calif., March 21, 2019 (Newswire.com)
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Raising A Reader, a national nonprofit organization that provides resources and guidance for families to implement home-based literacy routines, is celebrating its 20th anniversary in 2019 and marking two decades of supplying and coordinating children’s literacy programs to public schools, libraries, community agencies and other organizations across the country.

Approximately 63 percent of children in the United States fail to read proficiently by the time they start fourth grade due in part to lack of books in the home and family engagement. Research indicates if a child is not reading at grade-level by the end of third grade it will likely result in long-term academic failure for the child. Third-grade reading proficiency is one of the most significant predictors of high school graduation and children who do not read on grade-level by the end of third grade are less likely to graduate than their peers. Many of a child’s literacy habits and abilities are formed before the age of 8.

Research also shows a direct and proven relationship between family engagement and the academic growth and development of children, including social competence and relationships, cognitive development, communication skills, literacy development, vocabulary growth, expressive language and comprehension skills.

“Raising A Reader has accomplished much during the past 20 years and has had a tremendous impact on the lives of almost two million children,” said Michelle Torgerson, president and CEO of Raising A Reader. “As proud as we are, there is still much work to be done to improve the literacy of elementary-level children in this country and get them reading proficiently.”

As part of the Raising A Reader program, each week children bring home a book bag filled with award-winning books; the books are exchanged the following week for new ones with more than 100 books rotated through the home during the year. The program also trains parents on engaging their children in reading and connects families to local libraries to sustain the habit of borrowing and reading books after completion of the program.

The Raising A Reader program is evidence-based, with 39 independent evaluations showing that Raising A Reader significantly improves language and literacy skills, cognitive development, communication and comprehension skills, school readiness and social competence. The program is implemented through a network of community partners that comprise more than 3,000 locations across the country including public school systems, libraries, afterschool programs, community agencies and other organizations both public and private.

Raising A Reader is a 501c3 charitable organization dedicated to helping families develop, practice and maintain literacy habits for children ages 0-8 that are critical for a child’s success in school and in life. Headquartered in Redwood City, California, Raising A Reader was founded in 1999 and has served more than 1.7 million children nationwide. More information is available at www.RaisingAReader.org. Follow on Twitter @RARnational, Facebook at RaisingAReaderNational and Instagram at raising_a_reader.

Contact: Steve Honig, The Honig Company LLC, 818-986-4300, press@honigllc.com

Source: Raising A Reader

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March 21, 2019
The Kids Kindness Project and Genesis Hopeful Haven Aim to Close Foster Youth Unemployment Gap With The Internship Project

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While Unemployment Is At A Record Low, Foster Youth Is Still Left Homeless And Unemployed.

Press Release
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updated: Mar 5, 2019

MIAMI, March 5, 2019 (Newswire.com)
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Two organizations have come together to tackle the problem of unemployment amongst foster youth – an issue that often leads to homelessness. According to a multi-state study, 50 percent of former foster children are unemployed. Even those who do have jobs can run into trouble supporting themselves, as more than 71 percent report an annual income of less than $25,000. This population is highly vulnerable.

The Kids Kindness Project and Genesis Hopeful Haven have aimed to close the gap by creating The Internship Project. “We are preparing our foster kids, so they don’t become just another statistic,” says Fritzie Saintoiry, CEO of Genesis.

The longer someone has been in foster care, the smaller his or her chance of achieving adoption or permanent guardianship. Youth who “age-out” of the system have turned 18 and now face very low odds of achieving Independence and living productive lives. With no family support and a lack of essential skills, how will these youth be self-sufficient?

Joshua J, 18, says his biggest fear of aging out of the system is being homeless. In 10th grade, now left to survive on his own, he states, “If you don’t have a place to go, you’re not getting a job. If you don’t have a job, then you’re not going to have anywhere to go.” However, Joshua’s outlook on life changed when he participated in The Internship Project last summer.

The Internship Project prepares foster youth for the professional world by providing a chance to acquire valuable professional experience. After participating in the program, Joshua and many others discovered areas of interest for their careers, uncovered hidden talents and gained confidence to pursue job opportunities in the future.

Too many child welfare systems don’t offer the basic programs that make the difference between a successful career and a life spent struggling to get by. For every success story, there are still countless former foster youth who don’t know if they’ll ever be able to support themselves.

To reach more youth in need, The Internship Project staring a brand-new concept. The first “NEVER GIVE UP” conference; a motivational speaking seminar which will be held this Spring in Miami Dade welcoming 150 foster youth. “Our goal is to give foster youth the strength and motivation they need to succeed their transition into adulthood,” says Alexandra Hokfelt co-founder of the project.

Youth who attend the event will benefit from incredible motivational speakers and have the chance to sign up for The Internship Project to be paired up with employers in our communities.

This project gives companies the opportunity to be part of a network of businesses that care and change lives by welcoming participants for a one-day internship. As Benjamin Franklin said, “Tell me and I forget, teach me and I may remember, involve me and I will learn.”

Contact: Alexandra Hokfelt – alexandra@thekidskindnessproject.org or Fritzie Saintoiry – fristzie@ghhaven.org

Source: The Internship Project

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March 5, 2019
Growing Healthy Kids: Nutrition From Kale to Tofu

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Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) Provider Angela Dobbs of Cresca, Iowa, featured by National CACFP Sponsors Association

Press Release
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updated: Feb 28, 2019

AUSTIN, Texas, February 28, 2019 (Newswire.com)
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Angela Dobbs always felt her calling was in child care. She enjoys teaching and watching the children learn on a daily basis, picking up even the simplest of skills that we as adults take for granted. She is a dedicated childcare professional that wants everyone in her care to learn and grow.

While the children are learning their foundations of letters, numbers, and shapes, they also focus on nutritional experiences. Throughout the year, they tend the garden and harvest the produce. The children also help in the kitchen making recipes ranging from complex veggie meatballs to easier sandwiches on “make your own sub day.” Meals are served family style with everyone having their own small utensils and bowls to serve, while also practicing their manners passing plates and eating.

The ultimate goal is to have everyone, even the babies, included in as many activities and experiences as we can while we shower them with love and attention.

Angela Dobbs, Child Care Provider

Angela goes above and beyond to expose the children to many different foods prepared in a variety of ways from kale to tofu. Although children may be hesitant to taste new foods, she finds success in simply renaming the food with a kid-approved name or introducing regular foods that are different because of color, like maybe a purple carrot. Everyone is included in taste tests and big cheers are given when someone takes a bite of something they are hesitant to try.

Angela takes on the new food guidelines as challenges she wants to master. She started trying different recipes to make whole grain bread, including whole grain pizza crusts and child size sub rolls. Her goal is to have children like healthier, creditable food options.

CACFP is an indicator of quality child care. When children are cared for by providers, who are part of the CACFP program they are receiving the best nutrition available. Learn more about other CACFP providers featured in the Member Showcase at CACFP’s website, www.cacfp.org.

Since 1986, the National CACFP Sponsors Association (NCA) is the leading national organization for sponsors who administer the USDA Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP). It provides education and support to thousands of members in the CACFP community and in particular to sponsors of all sizes from across the country. CACFP strives to improve communication between families, caregivers, sponsors, and their supervising government agencies.

Source: National CACFP Sponsors Association

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February 28, 2019
Students Can Now Apply for Dozens of Scholarships at a Time With One Application and One Essay – for Free

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Going Merry announces MerryApps: A way for high school and college students to apply to more scholarships in less time

Press Release
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updated: Feb 26, 2019

NEW YORK, February 26, 2019 (Newswire.com)
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Going Merry, a free online platform which helps students find and apply to scholarships from one place, has introduced MerryApps to help students win more scholarships in less time. By completing a MerryApp, students are applying to multiple scholarships through one simple online application, with one essay. What would normally take countless hours of searching, completing different applications, and writing essays now takes 30 minutes or less.

“80% of our high school students find the process of paying for college extremely stressful,” said Charlie Maynard, Cofounder of Going Merry. “We want to reduce this stress by helping them to apply to scholarships as quickly as possible.”

In addition to MerryApps, Going Merry hosts thousands of individual scholarships for students of all backgrounds. Every student that joins is matched with hundreds of thousands of dollars in available scholarships, and a unique algorithm helps students to apply for the scholarships they have the best chance of winning.

Students can learn more about MerryApps and sign up for free at https://www.goingmerry.com

With a presence in over 6,000 high schools across the country, Going Merry has become a single destination for scholarship seekers to get matched and apply online, absolutely free.

About Going Merry: Going Merry makes it easy for students to find and apply for scholarships and simple for providers to manage them. As a team, we come together from different backgrounds and skill sets but share the same mission: to give every student equal access to life-changing education through scholarships.

Media Contact:
Chris Karnes
Phone: 215-407-4739
Email: ckarnes@goingmerry.com

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Source: Going Merry

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February 26, 2019
Linking Systems of Care for Children and Youth Project Premieres New Website
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Press Release
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updated: Feb 15, 2019
RENO, Nev., February 15, 2019 (Newswire.com)
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The National Council of Juvenile and Family Court Judges (NCJFCJ) announced today that it has launched a website for their project Linking Systems of Care for Children and Youth to promote healing for victims of crime.

The Linking Systems of Care for Children and Youth Project, funded by the Office for Victims of Crime (OVC), Office of Justice Programs and U.S. Department of Justice, is designed to support and document the work of statewide initiatives for victims of crime. These programs promote healing through the coordination of trauma-informed prevention and intervention services for children and/or youth and their families.

Currently, youth and families may seek support from child welfare, courts, education, social services, juvenile justice, victim services and health services systems. At times, youth and families enter through several doors before finding and receiving adequate and appropriate services that meet their needs as victims. The key benefit of the Linking Systems of Care project is to formally integrate these systems by equipping all systems of care with the tools to respond effectively to victims of crime. This approach ensures young victims and families are set on a path toward healing.

“Healing happens when systems of care offer coordinated treatment and create the opportunity to make positive social-emotional connections and provide for self-determination,” said Judge Ramona Gonzalez, chair of the Linking Systems of Care Steering Committee and NCJFCJ president-elect. “This is what Linking Systems of Care is – the chance to build capacity within communities. Building this capacity is my responsibility and commitment to my community.”

The Linking Systems of Care project website provides a wealth of information on child and youth victims of violence. It contains:
- resources that can be used when writing or speaking about child maltreatment and victimization;
- videos and online trainings;
- profiles of the four demonstration sites in four states; and
- a toolkit to help guide efforts for coordinators to help replicate the process from the demonstration sites in their community. From project planning, community engagement, victim identification and referral, and legal considerations, the toolkit provides a step-by-step guide to linking systems of care.
Montana, Virginia, Illinois and Ohio were chosen as demonstration states for the strength of their applications in a competitive federal award process. These sites highlighted statewide collaborations, diversity of their youth populations and stakeholders, and long-term commitment to modeling change.

In each of the states, a lead grantee organization is building a Linking Systems of Care network of stakeholders and partners; assessing underserved populations and service gaps; developing concrete strategies, techniques and tools for meeting victim needs; and linking child and youth victims to an expanded array of support services. Subject to adequate participation and performance, each demonstration project has the possibility of up to six years of ongoing project support through OVC.

“Putting the needs of child and youth victims and their families is the core principle of this project,” said Judge John J. Romero Jr., NCJFCJ president. “It’s important for this vulnerable population to have access to prevention and intervention services without obstacles or challenges in order to begin the process of healing as soon as possible.”

About the National Council of Juvenile and Family Court Judges (NCJFCJ):
Founded in 1937, the Reno, Nevada-based National Council of Juvenile and Family Court Judges is the nation’s oldest judicial membership organization and is focused on improving the effectiveness of our nation’s juvenile and family courts. A leader in continuing education opportunities, research and policy development in the field of juvenile and family justice, the 2,000-member organization is unique in providing practice-based resources to jurisdictions and communities nationwide.

PR Contact:
Chrisie Yabu, APR
KPS3
chrisie@kps3.com

Source: NCJFCJ
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February 15, 2019
FamilyTech Wearables Company JOY Partners With Pfizer Latin America

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Press Release
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updated: Jan 22, 2019

SAN FRANCISCO, January 22, 2019 (Newswire.com)
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FamilyTech Company JOY is partnering with Pfizer Mexico to disseminate its first product, the Octopus Watch, to children in Mexico living with a chronic health condition known as growth hormone deficiency (GHD). The Octopus Watch helps young patients by sending them reminders to take daily injections, while at the same time encouraging them to complete daily chores and enjoy the joys of childhood. The goal is that children with health conditions should have lives that are as normal fulfilled as possible and be supported to reach the same milestones as their peers.

Pfizer is one of the world’s largest pharmaceutical companies. It has initiatives around the world with programs in Asia Pacific, Latin America, Africa, the Middle East, Europe and North America. “At Pfizer, we believe there are many potential benefits for patients when digital technology is applied to health care solutions. In the development of this project, we sought to have a positive impact on the lives of young patients, by empowering them with a tool that allows them to learn healthy life habits and helps increase adherence and acceptance of the disease,” said Fabiola Mariño, Rare Diseases Medical Director at Pfizer Mexico.

The Octopus Watch includes an icon-based smartwatch and an associated digital app with a selection of 2000+ icons to remind the child of his or her routine. A first-of-its-kind, the product is backed by childhood experts and an evidence base from clinical trials that include studies at McGill University in Canada.

Research shows that a sense of routine and predictability are essential to children’s proper development, particularly children facing the difficulties of chronic health conditions. Developing a sense of autonomy, responsibility, and self-esteem is important for all children. Enjoying childhood is important, and the Octopus Watch is a product that can help facilitate it. “It’s important for all kids to celebrate their achievements, big or small, by tracking each child’s unique progress,” said Sam Hickmann, JOY CEO.

About JOY Familytech: the innovative brand behind the Octopus Watch is run by a dedicated team with backgrounds in child development, engineering, business and communications. Their mission is to create amazing technology that promotes independence and self-esteem while also helping families spend more quality time together.

For product samples and/or business inquiries contact Sam Hickmann, CEO at sam@heyjoy.io
JOY Familytech, Inc. 479 Jessie Street, San Francisco, CA 94103

Source: JOY Familytech

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January 22, 2019
Joy Familytech Offers the Gift of Good Habits

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This Black Friday and Cyber Monday, Octopus Watch, the first icon-based watch that empowers kids is available at the incredible price of $39

Press Release
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updated: Nov 23, 2018

SAN FRANCISCO, CA, November 23, 2018 (Newswire.com)
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Kids are exposed to many distractions these days, and parents too! It’s becoming harder to focus and maintain structure in the family. It often leads to power struggles, nagging and stress.
Octopus Watch is the first icon-based watch that teaches kids good habits and the concept of time.
It’s a watch that young kids can read and understand. It’s a scheduler that fosters responsibility, independence, and self-esteem. It’s an assistant that helps parents prioritize their expectations and stay consistent with daily routines.
JOY Familytech created this product to help parents create stress-free days and spend more precious quality time with their children. Their mission is to help parents cultivate autonomy & self-esteem in their children so they will be happier, healthier, and better able to enjoy the world around them.

The Octopus Watch’s easy setup and library of 2000+ icons helps parents create the perfect schedule for their child. With the new Octopus Watch Motion Edition, parents can now track their child’s physical activity and more. Octopus Watch Motion Edition comes with a charging station that is also a nightlight and a wake up time light.

We invented this product to help parents create stress-free days and spend precious quality time with their children

Sam Hickmann, Creator of the Octopus Watch

With its Octopus Watch at $39.99 for a limited time, JOY Familytech looks forward to helping even more families build good habits and overcome daily challenges. The Octopus Watch is available for purchase at www.octopus.watch, on Amazon and at Target stores nationwide.

About
JOY Familytech, the innovative brand behind the Octopus Watch, is run by a dedicated team with backgrounds in child development, engineering, business and communications. Their mission is to create amazing technology that promotes independence and self-esteem while also helping families spend more quality time together.
For product samples and/or business inquiries contact Sam Hickmann, CEO at sam@heyjoy.io

JOY Familytech, Inc. 479 Jessie Street, San Francisco, CA 94103

Source: JOY FAMILYTECH INC.

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November 23, 2018